Keira Walsh Advocates for Player Input on Fixture Congestion Amid Rising ACL Injuries

Keira Walsh joined Chelsea from Barcelona in January and is now voicing concerns regarding the congested fixture schedule in women’s football. Following the news that Arsenal defender Katie Reid has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a knee injury, Walsh asserts that governing bodies must prioritize listening to players about their experiences.

Reid, just 19 years old, sustained a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during training last week, marking her as the seventh player to suffer such an injury since the commencement of the Women’s Super League (WSL) season, joining England forward Michelle Agyemang on the sidelines.

“Perhaps we are playing too many games without adequate recovery time,” Walsh remarked. “While research can provide insights, it is essential to engage with those directly experiencing these challenges to collaboratively find solutions.”

Arsenal, the previous season’s Champions League winners, competed in 58 matches across all competitions, an increase from 52 matches the prior year. Additionally, players Alessia Russo and Beth Mead participated in six extra games as part of England’s Euro 2025 victory in Switzerland.

Studies indicate that female athletes are two to six times more prone to ACL injuries than their male counterparts. Walsh acknowledged that this is a source of concern for players, stating, “At times, we do worry about these risks. It’s a complex issue; we want to compete in those matches, to engage week after week and on significant occasions. However, it is crucial that those in leadership listen to our perspectives as players.”

The WSL oversees fixture organization, whereas UEFA manages the Women’s Champions League and European Championships, and FIFA governs the World Cup.

Fixture congestion is not limited to women’s football; it is an ongoing issue in the men’s game as well. Last September, Manchester City midfielder Rodri warned that players were nearing a potential strike in response to the demanding schedule, shortly before he himself faced a season-ending ACL injury. Similarly, Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber described the congested fixture list as “dangerous,” highlighting that it is a prominent topic of discussion in team locker rooms.